Kampot Province offers some of Cambodia’s most scenic waterways, thanks to its gentle rivers, lush mangroves, and surrounding jungle. It’s a perfect spot for canoe and kayak experiences that combine nature, culture, and a bit of adventure. Whether you want a relaxing paddle at sunset or a full-day exploration of salt fields and pepper farms, Kampot has options to suit different interests and fitness levels. We especially like the Kayak trip around Green Cathedral, which immerses you in the jungle’s tranquility while offering stunning sunset views. It’s a peaceful yet memorable way to connect with Cambodia’s natural beauty.
If you’re after a comprehensive day of activities, the Kampot kayak tour combined with pepper testing and cave visits offers a well-rounded experience (see more here). For those seeking a more luxurious, eco-friendly paddle, the Half Day Kayak Guided Tour to the Green Mangroves Forest provides high-quality equipment and a chance to see the mangroves up close (more details here). Below, we compare each of these top-rated tours to help you choose what suits your style and schedule.
1. Kayak trip around Green cathedral, Swim, Reflection sunset
This 3-hour kayak trip around Kampot’s Green Cathedral is a favorite among travelers for its blend of peaceful paddling, natural beauty, and sunset magic. The tour starts with a tuk-tuk ride from Kampot town, leading you to the calm river lined with nipa palms that resemble the grandeur of a green cathedral. The highlight is paddling through this lush corridor, feeling like you’re immersed in the jungle’s embrace.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on surrounding yourself with nature. The guide shares insights about the river’s ecology and local palms, enriching the trip. After kayaking, you can take a relaxing swim and enjoy the sunset — which many find to be the most stunning part. Guests rave about the peaceful atmosphere, friendly guides, and the chance to unwind with a cold drink while watching the sky change colors. It’s ideal for those who want a short, scenic escape that balances activity with tranquility.
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value at $26, perfect for a half-day of gentle adventure with unforgettable sunset views and a friendly guide.
2. KAMPOT~ the kayak tour/pepper testing/Sunset on time & more
This full-day Kampot kayak tour is a more comprehensive exploration of the area, priced at $40 per person. It’s designed for travelers eager to combine cultural visits with outdoor adventure. The tour includes a visit to a Kampot pepper farm, where you’ll enjoy pepper testing and learn about the local farming process. It also features stops at a hidden lake formed during Khmer Rouge times, a temple cave, and salt fields, making it more than just a kayak trip.
The highlight is paddling around the Green Cathedral, but the tour also touches on Cambodia’s history with visits to the lake and salt fields. The guide is fluent in English and passionate about sharing local stories. Given the full itinerary, this experience is perfect if you want a deeper understanding of Kampot’s landscape and culture, combined with a relaxing paddle. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the variety of sights.
Bottom Line: For around $40, this all-in-one day tour balances adventure, culture, and nature, ideal for curious travelers wanting more than just kayaking.
3. Kampot Pepper farm & Kayak trip around Green cathedral Sunset
This 7-hour tour at $43 per person combines a visit to an organic Kampot pepper farm with a kayak trip around the Green Cathedral and a sunset cruise. The trip begins with a tuk-tuk ride from Krong Kampot, leading you to La Plantation, an organic certified pepper farm where you’ll learn about pepper production and test different varieties. Afterward, you’ll visit Brateak Krola Lake, a site built during Khmer Rouge times using slave labor, adding historical context to your day.
The kayaking element is the same peaceful paddle around Green Cathedral, but the tour’s real strength is its blend of agriculture, history, and natural beauty. You’ll also enjoy swimming and relaxing activities during the sunset cruise. Many reviews note how comprehensive and engaging this experience is, especially those interested in local farming and history.
Bottom Line: This longer tour offers a rich mix of culture, history, and natural scenery, making it suitable for travelers who want a well-rounded, immersive day.
4. Half Day Kayak Guided Tour to the Green Mangroves Forest
For those who want a nature-focused adventure, the Half Day Kayak Guided Tour to the Green Mangroves Forest is a top choice. Priced at $50 per person, it’s slightly more expensive but includes high-quality equipment and a visit to the eco-tourism village Trapeang Sangkae. The tour takes you from the river into the mangroves, a fascinating ecosystem teeming with birds, fish, and even some small wildlife.
This trip is perfect if you’re interested in eco-tourism and want a more intimate encounter with Kampot’s mangrove environment. The guide shares insights about the local habitat and conservation efforts, adding educational value. After kayaking, you can enjoy a seafront lunch cooked by locals, rounding out a day of adventure and cultural exchange.
Guests mention how gorgeous the mangroves are and appreciate the safe, well-maintained equipment. It’s suited for those with some paddling experience or those willing to try kayaking in a protected environment.
Bottom Line: This tour combines eco-awareness and scenic kayaking with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for nature lovers and eco-conscious travelers.
$50 per person
How to Choose the Best Kampot Canoe & Kayak Experience
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For a quick, peaceful paddle to watch the sunset, the Kayak trip around Green Cathedral is hard to beat. If you want a full-day immersion into Kampot’s culture and scenery, the pepper farm and salt field tour offers great value. For eco-minded travelers or those who love mangroves, the Half Day Mangrove Tour is perfect.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak season. Think about whether you prefer a relaxed, scenic paddle or a full-day adventure with cultural and historical stops. Many tours include hotel pickup, making logistics easier.
Kampot’s diverse waterways and surrounding landscape provide a fantastic backdrop for canoe and kayak adventures. From peaceful sunset paddles to full-day explorations of salt production and pepper farms, there’s a trip for every type of traveler. For a gentle introduction to Cambodia’s natural beauty, the Kayak trip around Green Cathedral is our top pick. For those seeking a deeper cultural experience, the full-day pepper farm and salt field tour is highly recommended. And eco enthusiasts will love the Mangrove Forest Kayak for its environmental focus and scenic beauty.
No matter which you choose, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Enjoy paddling through Cambodia’s lush scenery and making your Kampot visit truly special.